Lyme Disease

Lyme disease, or ‘Borreliosis‘, is a bacterial infection passed to humans through a tick bite. Ticks are tiny spider-like creatures with three life-cycle stages, the smallest of which is about the size of a pinhead. They are frequently found in woodland, moorland and other grassy areas, where they feed on the blood of mammals and birds. They are usually found close to the ground, especially in moist, shaded areas. They attach themselves to the host for up to a week and swell as they feed.

The first symptom of Lyme disease is often a rash (erythema migrans) that can appear 3 to 30 days after the tick bite. It starts as a small red dot at the bite site but may grow larger with time. The centre of the spot often fades creating a characteristic “bull’s-eye” appearance. Other symptoms include fever, chills, headaches, stiff neck, fatigue, muscle aches and joint pain. Occasionally, a severe form of Lyme disease can develop and the heart, joints or the nervous system can be affected.

Wear white or light coloured clothing to make ticks more visible and inspect clothes every 3-4 hours.

At the end of your day out, check yourself (and your children) for ticks. Check both skin and hair, particularly warm moist areas such as the groin, backs of knees, armpits and neck. Pay particular attention to the head, neck and scalp of children. Check your pets for ticks after outdoor activities too.